New Study Highlights Mental Health Risks for Women with PCOS

Increased Odds of Eating Disorders, Anxiety for Women with PCOS

A recent study has found that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are more likely to experience eating disorders and anxiety than women without PCOS.

Key Findings

The study included data from over 289,000 women, of whom over 28,000 had PCOS. Compared to women without PCOS, women with PCOS had a higher risk of:

• Eating disorders (odds ratio 3.05)
• Anxiety symptoms (odds ratio 2.13)

The risk of eating disorders was particularly pronounced among women with PCOS who also experienced anxiety symptoms.

Implications for PCOS Guidelines

The study's findings suggest that mental health should be considered when assessing and managing women with PCOS. The researchers recommend that the 2023 PCOS Guideline recommendations include screening for disordered eating and anxiety, especially among women with comorbid anxiety symptoms.

This research highlights the importance of addressing mental health needs in women with PCOS to improve their overall well-being and quality of life.